Bhubaneswar, Nov 26: Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla arrived in Odisha on Wednesday and participated as the chief speaker at the 9th edition of the annual Science and Technology Festival, SAITED, hosted by Sai International School. During the event, he shared his experiences of space travel and insights into space science with hundreds of enthusiastic students.

Shukla, who travelled to space aboard the Space Dragon spacecraft on June 25 along with three fellow astronauts, spent 18 days at the International Space Station before returning to Earth on July 15. Speaking at the event, he expressed his delight in visiting Odisha and encouraged students to pursue careers in space science and aerospace.

“I am very happy to be in Odisha. It is important for Odia children to step into the field of space science. Their interest and dedication can take them far,” he said. He described space travel as a unique experience and emphasized his commitment to motivating young minds interested in aerospace.

Sharing details of his mission, Shukla told the students that adapting to life in space during the first few days was challenging, and readjusting to Earth’s gravity was even more difficult. He explained that astronauts rely on moisture-rich foods in space since dry foods can scatter in microgravity. Shukla also mentioned that India aims to reach the Moon by 2040, adding that work on the Gaganyaan mission is progressing steadily.

The event was graced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who attended as the chief guest. Students from various government and private schools across Bhubaneswar participated in the program, listening eagerly as Shukla shared the story of his mission and encouraged them to dream big.